International School Eindhoven
Further Information

Welcome

Thank you for considering the International School Eindhoven (ISE) for your child's education, and a warm welcome to ISE Admissions. To initiate the process, please click on the blue button above to submit your Registration of Interest (ROI).

 

Both our International Primary and International Secondary departments are situated on the ISE Campus at the Oirschotsedijk in Eindhoven. The Primary Dutch Bilingual Department is located at Jan Luikenstraat 49 in Eindhoven.

 

Please note that there is a non-refundable application fee of 200 euros, payable via PayPal upon submission of the Application Form for either the International Primary and International Secondary departments. If PayPal is inaccessible from your location, we are happy to discuss alternative payment arrangements with you. (For example: Turkish bank accounts are not available by Paypal).

 

How to Apply:
  Begin by completing the Registration of Interest General Enquiries form, which will enable us to create your Open Apply account and gather basic information about your family.

 

The application process for the International Primary and International Secondary departments requires a non-refundable application fee of 200 euros. This fee is payable via PayPal at the time of submitting the Application Form. Following this, the appropriate Application Form will be accessible to you via Open Apply and will be added to your checklist. Once the form is complete with all required documentation and the application fee is received, we will process your application. Please note that an application does not guarantee a firm placement.


Please note that spaces are limited for certain subject choices in MP4, MP5, and DP1. While we will make every effort to accommodate your preferences, we cannot guarantee availability for all subjects due to current capacity constraints. 

 

For applicants for the Diploma Programme for the school year 2026-2027, based on current enrollment and the number of students expected to transition into Year 1 of our Diploma Programme (DP1) next year, we anticipate that this year group may reach full capacity. While we are still accepting applications, please note that new applicants are currently being placed on a waiting list until we are able to confirm final capacity. We strongly encourage families to submit their applications via our OpenApply platform as soon as possible, as early applications will be given higher priority on the waiting list. We will share updates regarding space availability as soon as they become available.


All communication regarding your application will be conducted through the Open Apply system.

 

We are happy to help you with your inquiry.


 

Warm regards,
  

ISE Admissions Team

[email protected]

[email protected]

+31 (0)40-251 94 37

International School Eindhoven

The International School Eindhoven officially started operation on the 1st January 2009.

It falls under the umbrella organisation of the Stichting Internationaal en Lokaal Funderend Onderwijs (SILFO), an educational foundation with three sites. Two of the sites are Dutch national secondary schools serving the needs of the local community; these form the Stedelijk College Eindhoven.

Before 2009 these two schools belonged to different foundations with the Primary School operating from 1965 and the Secondary School operating from 1974 respectively. Both schools were started by initiative from the Philips Company.

In September 2013 the school took up residence at the current school on the Oirschotsedijk. The school is on a very large site in a green area of the city that is a Dutch historical monument, the Constant Rebecque Kazerne.

The joint vision for the ISE is to be ‘More than a School’ providing support for all expatriates in the Eindhoven regions.

Primary Admission Policy

ISE Primary Admission Policy

The International School Eindhoven provides quality primary and secondary education for students from all over the world regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion. Places are offered to students who do not yet have fluency in English or Dutch.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL DEPARTMENT

The International Department caters for the needs of students who will be in The Netherlands for a limited period of time. A student can be admitted to the International Department if he/she complies with one of the following admission criteria:

  •          The student has a non-Dutch nationality and has a parent that is working in The Netherlands for a limited time;
  •          The student has Dutch nationality and has lived and gone to school abroad for at least two years because a parent was stationed abroad;
  •          The student has Dutch nationality and has a parent that will be stationed abroad within two years and for at least two years.

The International Department provides education through an English medium for students whose parents are able to demonstrate a need for international education. 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS FOR THE DUTCH DEPARTMENT

The Dutch Department provides education through a Dutch medium for students whose parents will be in The Netherlands long term. The Dutch Department provides bilingual education in all groups. 30% of the student's lesson time is through the medium of English.

ADMISSION PLACEMENT

Students arrive at the ISE Primary Department from many different primary school backgrounds. In some countries, formal schooling begins at five years of age, while in others it may begin as late as seven years of age. The following points guide the ISE Primary Department in placing students who are eligible for admission:

  •  Students are placed in classes according to date of birth, related to a September – July school year (see table below)
  • The ISE Primary Department does not accelerate students, and does not support this as an educational approach.

Exceptions:

  • The ISE holds the right to place a student in a class lower or higher than age appropriate admission when the school agrees that this will provide the most benefit.
  • Students who have been previously accelerated, but fall under our age requirement for that age group may be considered if they have been placed in the accelerated level for at least a year.

TABLE OF NORMAL AGE REQUIREMENTS

Grade/Class

International Dept.

Dutch Dept.

Age

 

 

(age on entry as of

31st December)

(on completion in July)

Foundation *

4 years

4 years

4 years

Group 1

4 years

4 years

5 years

Group 2

5 years

5 years

6 years

Group 3

6 years

6 years

7 years

Group 4

7 years

7 years

8 years

Group 5

8 years

8 years

9 years

Group 6

9 years

9 years

10 years

Group 7

10 years

10 years

11 years

Group 8 Dutch Dept.

11 years

11 years

11/12 years


ADMISSIONS PROCEDURE

  • Parents/guardians complete from online
  • Parents/guardians receive acknowledgment of their application and are requested to complete an intake form
  • Parents/guardians complete intake form online and attach requested documents (school reports from the last 2 school years and, if available, psychological report and/or speech and language reports etc. 
  • Review of student files by primary head teacher (at this stage, it may be necessary to conduct an intake interview if further clarification of student files is needed
  • Confirmation of placement. If the application for admission is not accepted, parents will be notified and given support to find a more suitable placement


For those who qualify for admission to the school under our admissions policy, it is possible to join our waiting lists. Students are placed on the waiting lists in order of receipt of applications.


GUEST STATUS

Every new student starts at the ISE as a guest student and has a trial period of at least six weeks which could be extended to three months. The student is initially reviewed by the class teacher and when there is a EN need, the EN Team will be contacted immediately.

The Educational Needs Department (EN department) monitors the needs of individual students and supports the teachers with regards to educational needs. If the needs of the student require further investigation or support, the EN department will be involved.

Referring to the ISE’s Support Profile, admission can be offered to students with mild/moderate educational needs or physical challenges depending on the level of support required in relation to resources available. The ISE must be provided with all psychological/educational evaluation assessments, Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and other relevant documentation as part of the admission process. The ISE can provide opportunities for initial screening, and limited individual and group support.

When it becomes clear through observations, screening and support that the support a (guest) student requires is beyond what the ISE can offer the ISE will refer the student to an alternative school which can cater for the student’s needs. The ISE is obliged to find an alternative school for students which have had a trial period and cannot be catered for. 



AP2 2020-2021 (02.11.2020)






Secondary Admission Policy

ISE Secondary Admission policy 

 

As per Dutch legislation, the ISE can only consider admission on the following conditions: 

 

  •  Foreign students who will reside in the Eindhoven region for a temporary period while their parents are employed in the country. 
  • Dutch national students who have had at least two years of international education while their parents have been employed abroad. 
  • Dutch national students who are planning to be educated, for at least two years abroad due to their parents’ employment outside The Netherlands. (Documented evidence from employer is required).
  • Dutch nationals applying to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (successful completion of VWO 4 or HAVO 5 is required prior to application).

In addition, the ISE considers admission on the following conditions: 

 

  • Completed dossier which includes documented evidence (school records, transcripts, assessments) qualifying applicants to enter secondary education.
  • Sufficient command of English to access the IB curriculum. (See ELL below for additional details)
  • No learning, socio/emotional or behavioural difficulties which go beyond those that the ISE Secondary Department can cater for. (See LN below for additional details)
  • A minimum age of 11 years for the IB MYP. (See Admission placement below for additional details)
  • A minimum age of 16 years for the IB DP. (See Admission placement below for additional details)
  • Demonstrate ability and aptitude to successfully complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
  • Commitment to payment of school costs. 

A final decision on admission will be based on the student’s previous school reports, interviews and assessments to ascertain the student’s ability to follow and complete the school’s IB curriculum. 

 

Students with a special educational need (LN)

 

Admission can be offered to students with mild/moderate educational difficulties or physical disabilities depending on the level of support required in relation to resources available. The school must be provided with all psychological/educational evaluation assessments, Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and other relevant documentation as part of the admission process. The school will provide opportunities for initial screening, and limited individual and group support. Specialist support and academic tutoring may be required at additional cost to the parents. 

 

English Language Leaners (ELL)

 Students who meet the requirements for admission to the ISE Middle Years Programme but have limited proficiency in English, will be placed in the ELL programme. Students who enter MP 5 and the Diploma Programme are expected to have a level of English proficiency to follow the IB programmes. In order to support the development of English language learning, the ISE may stipulate the provision of Mother Tongue learning at an additional cost. 

 

Top Talent Students in Arts and Sports 

The International School Eindhoven falls under Dutch law and legislation within “de wet op voortgezet onderwijs” (National legislation for secondary education) and “de leerplicht wet” (National legislation on compulsory education and statuatory attendance). The ISE expects all students to meet a minimum of 950 hour lesson time per year. In the Netherlands, top talent students are catered for by attending a so-called Top Talent school (formerly “LOOT” school) where talent and education is integrated. The ISE is not authorised to make such accommodations for top talent students.

 

Admission Placement

Students arrive at the ISE Secondary Department from many different primary and secondary school backgrounds. In some countries, formal schooling begins at five years of age, while in others it may begin as late as seven years of age. The following points guide the ISE Secondary Department in placing students who are eligible for admission: 

 

 Students are placed in classes according to date of birth, related to a September – July school year (see table below)

 

  • The ISE Secondary Department does not accelerate students, and does not support this as an educational approach.
  • The ISE Secondary Department expects that students will normally be 18 years of age or older on graduating from the school. 


Exceptions: 

  • A student may be placed in a class lower or higher than age appropriate admission when the school, the parents and the student agree that this will provide the most benefit. 
  • Students who have been previously accelerated, but fall under our age requirement for that age group may be considered if they have been placed in the accelerated level for at least a year.  

 

 

Table of normal age requirements

  Grade/Class    

   Age on entering in September  

    Age on completing in July    

         MP1

                        11*

                     12

         MP2

                        12

                     13

         MP3

                        13

                     14

         MP4

                        14

                     15

         MP5

                        15

                     16

         DP1

                        16

                     17

         DP2

                        17

                     18

 

  * (Example) We define the age of 11 as having completed 11 years since birth. On a child’s 11th birthday, the child will be starting his or her 12th year of life.

 

  

Admissions Procedure

 

  • Parents/guardians complete the application for admission form and submit it to the Administration Office.
  • Requests for meetings with the Admissions Officer will only be arranged via the administration department after submission of an application for admission form.
  • If applicable, an appointment with the Learning Needs Coordinator and/or the English Language Learning Coordinator will be arranged.
  • The ISE may contact previous schools. 
  • The Admissions Committee will consider the application for admission. Upon receipt of the completed dossier, the ISE will inform the parents of the status of the application within 6 weeks. If the application for admission is accepted, parents/guardians will be sent admission documents for completion and further consideration. If the application for admission is not accepted, parents will be advised of the reason(s) for refusal and the ISE will find an alternative school for the student.     
  • The Admissions Committee will review the admission documents and issue a final decision on admission and placement.
  • After admission is agreed, it may be necessary to arrange an appointment to confirm subject choices. 
  • New students will be invited to take admissions assessments in English and Maths before they start school. Diploma students will take additional assessments depending on their subject choices. English Language Learners will be assessed to establish their proficiency in English. These assessments help to determine a student’s knowledge and understanding in relation to the school’s curriculum.

Secondary Admissions FAQs


ISE SECONDARY DEPARTMENT, FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ADMISSIONS

 

How do I apply for admission to the ISE secondary department?

Follow the link on the Admissions page on the website. Applications are made online using Open Apply. All communication is carried out via Open Apply. An application will be considered only when it is complete with all the required documents (school reports, learning needs documentation if needed, and a Reference from the current school). Documents need to be officially translated into English by a translation bureau and not by parents. The Reference is requested via Open Apply. There is a 200 euro non-refundable fee payable by PayPal.

 

When should I apply?

Applications can be made at any time. Please ensure that an application is made with as much notice as possible and certainly before arrival in the Netherlands. It is important to note that there may be waiting lists for the desired year group.

 

Are there any entry tests?

Applicants for MP5 and DP1 will be invited to take an English and a Maths assessment during the admissions process, usually in the Spring of the year of entry. Students with limited English will be assessed on arrival. These assessments help to determine placement for the appropriate year group and give an indication if the students will manage the school’s curriculum. Applicants for MP5 and DP1 will also take an online assessment as part of the admissions process. The Admissions Committee may recommend applicants for other year groups take admission assessments in English and Maths if more information is needed about the applicant’s academic performance.

 

MP5 Students starting during the school year (rather than at the beginning of the school year) will take English, Maths and an online screening once they are in Eindhoven. The date for starting school will be one week after that.

 

Can a student join the second year of the IB Diploma Programme?

No. We do not accept students into the second year.

 

Can a student transfer from another IB school into the IB Diploma Programme?

We do not generally accept transfers. Such enquiries will be dealt with individually.

 

How long does it take to get an application accepted?

6 weeks maximum after the receipt of all the required admission documents.

 

My child has learning needs, can I apply?

The ISE has a Student Support Department which can cater for a range of needs. Full details of the learning needs and support given at the current school needs to be uploaded with the application, as indicated on the application form. The school’s admission and inclusion policies can be found in the school guide on the school website.

 

Can a student use a different name and/or gender on certificate/diploma?

 Registration with the IB has to be in line with the name and gender as stated on the passport.


Is there any financial assistance or are scholarships available?

No.

 

Can fees be paid in instalments?

Yes. Payment option choices are made via a form which is issued if a student is admitted to the school. Payment may be made in 9 instalments from September to May payable by automatic direct debit from a Euro bank account. This is the preferred method of payment. It is also possible to choose to pay in one payment of the total due within 30 days of invoice. The choice of payment method remains valid for the entire school year. No receipts, monthly proof of payment documents, or copies of invoices are provided. If proof of payment is required you should use your own personal bank records together with the annual fees invoice which details payment dates.

 

Can my employer pay the fees for me?

No. If your employer is willing to cover the cost of the school fees, you are welcome to arrange reimbursement with them directly after making the payment yourself.

 

If my child starts mid-year are fees reduced?

Yes, fees will be calculated pro rate.

 

Which languages are offered?

In addition to English, all students in MP1-MP5 study Dutch (at the appropriate level). Students are also  expected to study either French or Spanish. Student’s home languages can also be accommodated (at an additional cost) in place of French or Spanish subject to availability. On admission, families will be contacted by the Language Coordinator to discuss home language possibilities.

 

As prospective parents, can we visit the campus?

Yes, for a campus tour you can contact the School Office to arrange an appointment.


Are there boarding facilities or host families?

No. The ISE does not accept students who will not live with their parents/guardians.

 

Is there any school transport?

There is a public bus (number 610) from Eindhoven Centraal station direct to the Campus at the beginning and end of the school day. This is not free.

 

How do children get to school?

Students either cycle to school, take the public bus (610) or are dropped off by car. The Campus has a car park and a kiss and ride facility. Due to the location of the campus it is not usually possible to walk.

 

Where do most families live?

Most families live within short travelling distance of the school. Neighbourhoods such as Meerhoven, Veldhoven, Achtse Barrier, Blixembosch and Kerkdorp Acht are popular locations, as well as in the centre of Eindhoven.

 

Is food included in the fees?

No. There is a cafeteria where hot and cold food can be purchased. Packed lunches can be brought from home. There are no microwave ovens available for students to warm food brought from home.

 

Do students need their own computer or Ipad?

All students needs their own laptop computer which they must bring to school each day. As part of the admission process, families are sent information about which lap tops are needed for school. A Chromebook is not sufficient for their study needs.

 

Do students have a locker?

Yes.

 

When does the academic year start and end?

The school year begins in August or September and ends in July. Dates vary from year to year according to the Dutch school holiday calendar.

 

I am coming from a country where the school year is different, what should I do?

Students will generally be placed in their age appropriate year group. For example a child finishing the school year in Australia in December in grade7/year 8 and joining ISE in January would be placed in the same grade. They would move to the next grade in the following academic year starting in August/September.

 

I am relocating in the middle of the school year, can children start during the year?

Yes. We accept applications for admission throughout the year, except into DP1.

 

How many students are in the school?

There are currently around 600 secondary school students. There are around 45 different nationalities amongst the students.

 

What is the average class size?

The maximum class size is 25 students, however, due to the wide range of subjects offered, many subject have significantly lower numbers.

 

Are there any individual musical instrument lessons available, such as piano or violin?

No, however all students in the IB MYP follow performing arts which includes both Music and Drama.

 

Is there an after school activities programme?

Yes. Please see the details on the website.

 

Can students stay at school until they are collected by their parents?

Students are expected to leave the Campus at the end of the school day, unless they are taking part in after school activities. There is no after school supervision available.


Does ISE sponsor visas for students?
No, ISE does not sponsor student visas. Families are responsible for arranging the appropriate visa or residence permit required for their child. 


Primary Admissions FAQ's

ISE Primary School FAQ's about Admissions


How do I apply for admission to the ISE International Primary and ISE Bilingual Primary?

Follow the link on the Admissions page on the website. Applications are made online using Open Apply. All communication is carried out via Open Apply. An application will be considered only when it is complete with all the required documents (school reports, learning needs documentation if needed, and an intake form). Documents that need translating into English, can be translated by the parents and the original report, together with the translated report, need to be uploaded into Open Apply.

An application fee of 200 euros is payable for the International Primary department.


When should I apply?

Applications can be made at any time. Please ensure that an application is made with as much notice as possible and certainly before arrival in The Netherlands. It is important to note that there may be waiting lists for the desired year group.

 

Do you have places available?

We have places available. However, depending on the year group and department, there might be a waiting list. Please contact our admissions department for more details.


What happens if I apply now and do not get a place for this current academic year?

Your application will automatically roll over to the next academic year until a place becomes available or you advise us that you are no longer interested.


As prospective parents, can we visit the campus?

Yes, for a campus tour you can contact the School Office to arrange an appointment.


In which languages are students taught?

International Primary: English

Bilingual Primary: Dutch (70%) and English (30%)


Do you enroll students who do not speak English or Dutch

Yes we do! Extra English support in the ISE International Primary is given by our English as an additional language (EAL) teachers. Extra Dutch support in the ISE Bilingual Primary is provided by our Dutch as an additional language teachers (DAL).


What is the compulsory school age for children in The Netherlands?

The compulsory school age is 5 years old. However, many parents choose for their child to start school at the age of 4.


Is the school open to all students?

There are certain admission requirements, which the school is required to adhere to by the Dutch government. The International Department caters for the needs of foreign national students who will be in The Netherlands for a limited period of time. If you intend to live and work in the Netherlands long term or permanently, then your child is not eligible for the International Primary. You are then required to apply for a place for your child in our Bilingual Primary or a local Dutch school. 

A student can be admitted to the International Primary, if he/she complies with one of the following:

* The student has a non-Dutch nationality and has a parent that is working in The Netherlands for a limited time;

* The student has Dutch nationality and has lived and gone to school abroad for at least two years because a parent was stationed abroad;

* The student has Dutch nationality and has a parent that will be stationed abroad within two years and for at least two years. This has to be proven by a written statement of intent by parent or employer.


Are there any entry tests?

Students will be assessed in the first 6 weeks after arrival. These assessments help to determine placement for the appropriate year group and give an indication if the students will manage the school’s curriculum.


How long does it take to get an application accepted?

A maximum of 6 weeks after the receipt of all the required admission documents.


My child has learning needs, can I apply?

The ISE has an EN Department which can cater for a range of needs. Full details of the learning needs and support given at the current school needs to be uploaded with the application, as indicated on the application form. With the best interest of your child in mind, we may advise that you remain on the waiting list until we are able to provide the full support that your child requires. Please note that your application review can take longer if there are learning diversity requirements. The school’s admission and inclusion policies can be found in the school guide on the school website.

 

Is there any financial assistance or are scholarships available?

No.

 

Can fees be paid in instalments?

 Yes.  Payment option choices are made via a form which is issued if a student is admitted to the school.  Payment may be made in 8 instalments from October to May payable by automatic direct debit from a Euro bank account. This is the preferred method of payment. It is also possible to choose to pay in one payment of the total due within 30 days of invoice.  The choice of payment method remains valid for the entire school year.  No receipts, monthly proof of payment documents, or copies of invoices are provided.  If proof of payment is required you should use your own personal bank records together with the annual fees invoice which details payment dates.

 

Can my employer pay the fees for me?


Your employer can pay in one payment of the total due within 30 days of invoice. You have to provide full contact details of the company including the signature of an authorized person and a company stamp. These details will be checked annually. An additional fee of 600 euros is charged to companies.

 

If my child starts mid-year are fees reduced?

Yes, fees will be calculated pro rate.

 

Do you have any after-school care?

There is an after-school care facility on campus, which is run by Childcare Eindhoven, location Columbus. Further information can be found on the following link: (https://www.childcareeindhoven.nl/nl/locaties/columbus



Do you have any day care facilities?

There is a day care facility on campus, which is run by Childcare Eindhoven, location Columbus. Further information can be found on the following link: (https://www.childcareeindhoven.nl/nl/locaties/columbus

 

Are there boarding facilities or host families?

No. The ISE does not accept students who will not live with their parents/guardians.

 

Is there any school transportation?

There is a public bus (number 610) from Eindhoven Centraal station direct to the Campus at the beginning and end of the school day. This is not free.

 

How do children get to school?

Students either cycle to school, take the public bus (610 or 10) or are dropped off by car. The Campus has a car park and a kiss and ride facility. Due to the location of the campus it is not usually possible to walk.

 

Where do most families live?

Most families live within short travelling distance of the school. Neighbourhoods such as Meerhoven, Veldhoven, Achtse Barrier, Blixembosch and Kerkdorp Acht are popular locations, as well as in the centre of Eindhoven.

 

Is food included in the fees?

No. There is a cafeteria where hot and cold food can be purchased by means of a lunch card. Packed lunches can be brought from home. There are no facilities for students to warm up food from home.

 

Do students need school supplies or their own computer or Ipad?

Primary students do not need to bring any school supplies, nor do they need their own laptop or Ipad. They do need a library bag and a gym-kit (shorts, T-shirt and indoor-gym shoes).

 

Do students have a locker?

Yes.

 

When does the academic year start and end?

The school year begins in August or September and ends in July. Dates vary from year to year according to the Dutch school holiday calendar.

 

I am coming from a country where the school year is different, what should I do?

Students will generally be placed in their age appropriate year group. For example a child finishing the school year in Australia in December in grade 4/year 5 and joining ISE in January would be placed in the same grade. They would move to the next grade in the following academic year starting in August/September.

 

I am relocating in the middle of the school year, can children join at any time during the school year?

Yes. We accept applications for admission throughout the year.

 

How many students are in the primary school?

There are currently more than 700 primary school students, representing approximately 50 different nationalities.

 

What is the average class size?

The maximum class size is 20 students in the Upper Foundation Class and Groups 1. In Groups 2-7/8 however, there is a maximum class size of 22 students.

  

Is there an after school activities programme?

Yes. Please see the details on the website.

 

What are the ISE school times?

Primary School Times                                     Secondary School Times

08:25first bell                      08:40 first bell

10:00break                       10:45 break

12:00lunch                        13:15 lunch 

15:30school ends                     15:55 school ends


On Wednesdays, school finishes at 12:30         On Wednesdays, school finishes at 15:00


Can students stay at school until they are collected by their parents?

Students are expected to leave the campus at the end of the school day, unless they are taking part in after school activities. There is no after school supervision available. 


 


4

School Fees 2025-26

ISE School Fees 2025-26


Primary Dutch Bilingual Department voluntary parental contribution (per child) 


Upper Foundation to Group 8 €2400



Primary International Department fees (per child) 


Upper Foundation to Group 7 €6394



Secondary Department fees (per child)


MP1 €8192


MP2 €8192


MP3 €8192


MP4 €8192


MP5 €8317


DP1 €8557


DP2 €9050


It is preferred that fees are paid in 9 instalments via bank direct debit. This is arranged after admission.



Application fee per child €200 

(payable during online application via Paypal for International Primary and Secondary departments)

Please note that the application/registration fee is non-refundable



Refundable deposit per child (secondary department) €500

SILFO Grievance Procedure translated to English

Complaints procedure SILFO
Not satisfied? A complaint? We are open to the conversation!

1. General information
1.1 Introduction

Despite all good intentions, it may happen that a pupil, parent/carer, staff member or volunteer is not satisfied with a situation at school. Never walk around with a complaint or dissatisfied feeling, but talk about it. This document lists the steps to take.

1.2 What is a complaint?

We distinguish between informal and formal complaints:
Informal complaints are reports of feelings of dissatisfaction that you initially discuss with the person directly involved and/or mentor/coach. Together, those involved seek a suitable solution. If you cannot find a solution together, the team leader, (education) director and possibly the director - the school's competent authority - are involved in the discussion (see the step-by-step plan in chapter 2).

If the 'complainant' is not satisfied with the way the informal complaint has been handled within school, the 'complainant' can file a formal complaint with the external complaints committee. A formal complaint is the written naming of a situation at school that requires change in the interests of a safe living, learning and working environment. A complaint may relate to behaviour and decisions, or the failure of the accused to behave and take decisions. This includes a complaint about discriminatory behaviour and aggression. Formal complaints are registered.

1.3 How do we deal with complaints?

In most cases, complaints about day-to-day affairs between pupils, parents, staff and school management are settled verbally. Most complaints are resolved by talking to each other. See the step-by-step plan in Chapter 2. Anonymous complaints are not dealt with. The reason for this is that the accused cannot defend themselves against anonymous complaints.
If the complaint concerns a student's final examination situation, you can address the examination committee in the first instance. In the second instance, the candidate may appeal the decision of the school's (programme) director to the appeals committee. More information on lodging an appeal can be found in the examination regulations.
If the complaint concerns a situation regarding promotion following the student's final report, the situation is discussed in the school's revision meeting.

1.4 Confidential counsellors

There are both internal and external confidential counsellors for staff and pupils at each school. The confidant is independent and may be able to guide you in raising a complaint and advise you on how to proceed. The confidential counsellor can also mediate during discussions and help think about how to resolve your complaint. Contact details can be found in the School Guide (for pupils and parents) or on the intranet (for employees).

2. List of steps to follow for pupils and parents

Step 1: you report your complaint to a member of staff concerned

You make your complaint known to a staff member involved and/or your contact person (e.g. mentor or pupil's
coach). By talking to each other about the feeling of dissatisfaction or the problem that has arisen, you can try to
reach a solution together.

Step 2: you knock on the door of the manager of the employee concerned

If your complaint is not resolved, are you not satisfied with the solution, you can approach the supervisor of the
employee concerned. If the employee (step 1) cannot resolve the complaint himself or herself, he or she will also
approach the supervisor.

Step 3: you approach the person in charge of the school

If, in your opinion, your complaint has not or insufficiently been resolved (step 1) after the conversation with the
supervisor (step 2), you can contact the (education) director of the school. In an e-mail, clearly state your name,
address and telephone number, the content of the complaint, against whom the complaint is directed, what
actions you have taken to reach a solution and what, in your opinion, needs to be done to resolve the complaint.
You can find the name of the (education) director in the School Guide. You will receive a response within three
working days.

Step 4: you approach the Executive Board

If a complaint cannot be resolved or, in your opinion, has not been satisfactorily resolved at the school level, you
can take your complaint to the SILFO Executive Board. In an email to [email protected], clearly state your name,
address details and telephone number, the content of the complaint, against whom the complaint is directed,
what actions you have taken to reach a solution and what, in your opinion, needs to be done to resolve the
complaint. You will receive a response within three working days.

3. The external complaints committee

If, in the opinion of the complainant, the complaint has not been handled correctly or negligently after going
through the steps mentioned in Section 2, the complainant may refer the complaint to the external complaints
committee.

If, in the opinion of the external complaints committee, it appears that no or insufficient attempts have been made
to raise or deal with the complaint at the level of the school or the competent authority (Board of Governors), the
external complaints committee will declare the complaint inadmissible and forward the complaint to the
competent authority of the school, with a request to reach a solution at the level of the school or the competent
authority.

Would you like to file a complaint with the external complaints committee?

If so, please send an e-mail to [email protected]. In the message, clearly state your name, address and telephone
number, the content of the complaint, against whom the complaint is directed, what actions you have taken to
reach a solution and what you think should be done to resolve the complaint.